myBurbank Talks

Behind the scenes of California lawmaking, Assemblyman Nick Schultz reveals what his first year representing Burbank in Sacramento has truly been like. Far from the stereotypical politician, Schultz shares how he balances flying back twice weekly to be with his young family while chairing the powerful Public Safety Committee—an unusual responsibility for a freshman legislator.

The conversation takes us through Schultz's legislative victories, including his human trafficking bill that closes critical loopholes in protecting minors and creates support funds for survivors. With passion drawn from his prosecutor background, Schultz explains how his experience handling complex cases now shapes his approach to lawmaking. "Nobody is above the law," he asserts when discussing controversial legislation requiring federal agents to identify themselves—a direct response to recent immigration enforcement tactics that have alarmed communities.

Film industry advocates will appreciate Schultz's detailed breakdown of the expanded tax credit program that's bringing production back to Burbank. He artfully explains how these incentives aren't corporate handouts but essential economic drivers keeping skilled workers employed locally. Similarly, his innovative approach to housing development aims to transform vacant commercial properties into affordable housing while respecting local control—a refreshing middle ground in California's contentious housing debate.

What resonates throughout is Schultz's authentic connection to Burbank and surprising optimism about political collaboration. Despite the challenges—from budget deficits to the high-speed rail controversy—his practical problem-solving approach and willingness to reach across divides offers a glimpse of how governance might work when focused on community needs rather than political posturing.

Have thoughts on pending legislation or need assistance with state-related issues? Reach out directly to Assemblyman Schultz through his website or district office on 3rd and Magnolia in Burbank.

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Under an overcast sky at Johnny Carson Park, the heart of Burbank comes alive with chrome, color, and community spirit. The 34th Annual Road Kings Charity Car Show transforms this peaceful park into a dazzling showcase of automotive history, where over 300 classic vehicles draw thousands of admirers while serving a greater purpose.

What makes this event extraordinary isn't just the meticulously restored hot rods or the gleaming vintage treasures—it's the people behind them. The Road Kings, established in 1952 with just 17 members, have built something remarkable: a car club where passion meets philanthropy. Every dollar raised goes directly back to Burbank charities, continuing a tradition that has contributed approximately $1 million to local causes since the early 1990s.

As we wander between rows of Nomads, Mustangs, and El Caminos with their hoods proudly raised, we discover that each vehicle carries not just passengers but stories. We meet original Road Kings member Jim Miles, who recalls racing his '49 Ford with a built flathead engine. We chat with Chris Jacobs about his journey from Overhaulin' to hosting Mecum Auctions. Burbank council members share how these community gatherings strengthen the city's social fabric during challenging times.

The beauty of the Road Kings show extends beyond metal and motors—it's in watching three generations of a family admire a '57 Chevy together, in seeing friendships renewed over shared memories of first cars, and in witnessing a community celebrate what makes them unique while giving back to those in need.

Whether you're a dedicated gearhead who can identify every engine modification or simply someone who appreciates beauty, craftsmanship and community spirit, the Road Kings Charity Car Show reminds us what happens when passion drives purpose. Come see where Burbank's heart and heritage meet on four wheels.

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Ever wondered where to find the ultimate burger in Burbank? Look no further than this mouthwatering deep dive into the city's rich burger history with a special appearance by current Burbank Mayor Nikki Perez – not in her official capacity, but as a lifelong resident, dedicated foodie, and self-described "pregnant lady who wants burgers at 3 AM."

From the perfect patty to the ideal toppings, we explore what makes a burger truly exceptional. Mayor Perez reveals her husband Blake's secret to an amazing homemade burger (hint: it involves gruyere cheese and a brioche bun), while hosts Craig Sherwood and Ross Benson share their own burger preferences, from pickle styles to cheese choices.

The conversation serves up a feast of Burbank burger knowledge, from current favorites like BB's Cafe and Granville to nostalgic looks at beloved establishments now gone – Clint's with its intimate 12-seat dining area, Juicy Harvey's (now a Wienerschnitzel), and the original House of Pancakes (Burbank had the very first one!). We uncover surprising burger finds, including the revelation that Del Taco might serve "the best 3 AM burger" in town, and restaurant evolutions as places change hands over decades.

Beyond burgers, we explore the deeper connections between food and community in Burbank – from restaurant owners who'll open early to prepare breakfast burritos for studio workers to the importance of supporting small local businesses over chains. The rich history of Burbank's food scene comes alive through stories of bygone establishments, secret menu items, and the evolution of the city's culinary landscape.

Share your own Burbank burger recommendations with us! Email [email protected] with your favorite spots, and stay tuned for our upcoming breakfast burrito episode. Your food adventures could be featured in our next deep dive into Burbank's delicious history.

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In this compelling conversation with Mayor Nikki Perez, Burbank residents gain valuable insights into the city's remarkable financial stability during challenging economic times. Unlike many neighboring municipalities struggling with deficits, Burbank maintains a budget surplus while preparing thoughtfully for future challenges. Mayor Perez doesn't shy away from discussing difficult decisions, including upcoming utility rate increases, while emphasizing that Burbank's water and power rates remain among the lowest in Los Angeles County.

The discussion explores why infrastructure investments cannot be delayed any longer. From aging water reservoirs to storm-damaged power lines, the mayor explains in accessible terms how postponing these improvements would ultimately cost residents far more in the future. She shares how the city balances fiscal responsibility with maintaining quality services, highlighting Burbank Water and Power's exceptional reliability record and the various assistance programs available to residents who need help with their bills.

The conversation shifts to the challenges facing beloved community events in Burbank. As insurance requirements and regulatory hurdles mount, Mayor Perez describes the city's efforts to preserve these cultural touchstones, including a new community grant program for non-profits. She shares personal insights about the importance of these gatherings to Burbank's identity while acknowledging the realities of modern safety concerns.

Listeners also receive updates on significant city projects, including the storm damage to Starlight Bowl and alternative plans for this year's July 4th celebrations. Throughout the discussion, Mayor Perez demonstrates her deep connection to Burbank as a lifelong resident who understands both the city's history and the challenges it faces moving forward.

Have concerns about your utility bills or upcoming rate changes? Contact Burbank Water and Power directly, where staff members are ready to help you understand your options and access available assistance programs. The city is committed to supporting residents through these necessary transitions while maintaining the services and community spirit that make Burbank special.

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Discover the cream of the crop in Burbank as Craig Sherwood, Ross Benson, and Ashley Erickson unveil the winners of the fifth annual Burbank's Best awards. With participation skyrocketing—over 1,500 new voters this year—this celebration showcases nearly 240 local businesses that have captured the hearts and loyalty of community members.

The trio dives into category after category, revealing winners while sharing personal insights about many local establishments. From longtime Burbank institutions like Porto's Bakery and Bob's Big Boy to exciting newcomers like Bagel Boss and Bone Juice, the conversation provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's vibrant business landscape. The hosts' banter reveals authentic connections to these businesses—whether it's Craig's memories of getting his car detailed at Burbank Auto Detail or Ashley's experience with local beauty services.

What makes these awards special is their democratic nature. No judges, no sponsors picking winners—just pure community votes that identify truly beloved local establishments. The process is rigorous, with each business carefully verified as a legitimate Burbank establishment. The result is a genuine reflection of what makes Burbank unique.

Between the categories, listeners gain fascinating local trivia and heartwarming stories of resilience. Learn which hotel celebrities frequent, which florist creates arrangements for the Tournament of Roses, and how beloved establishments like Colony Theater and Bell Cottage bounced back from challenges with community support.

Whether you're a lifelong Burbank resident or new to the area, this episode serves as the perfect insider's guide to the best the city offers. Keep an eye out for those Burbank's Best decals displayed proudly in windows—they're hard-earned badges of community appreciation!

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Step into the heart of Burbank's emergency services as we broadcast live from the 2025 Police and Fire Service Day. This eye-opening episode pulls back the curtain on the diverse roles and responsibilities that make the Burbank Fire Department one of the nation's elite emergency response teams.

From the bustling film sets to your front door, Burbank's first responders are quietly crafting systems of safety that extend far beyond emergencies. Captain Matt Garland, celebrating 31 years with the department, reveals how his team oversees safety for the city's 90+ sound stages and Hollywood productions. His fascinating insights into film permit processes showcase how deeply intertwined the fire department is with Burbank's identity as an entertainment capital.

You'll hear Vice Mayor Tamala Takahashi passionately advocate for the department's remarkable EMS subscription program—a service that saves residents from $1,500+ ambulance bills for just $7 monthly. This conversation illuminates how community-focused initiatives are transforming emergency healthcare access for Burbank families.

The episode features intimate perspectives from those rarely in the spotlight: Fire Administrator Christine Alles explains the financial backbone supporting operations, Engineer Jennifer Hoffman shares her journey as the department's second female firefighter, and Deputy Chief Dave Burke details how analytics guide future planning as the city expands. Each conversation reveals another layer of the comprehensive safety network protecting Burbank residents.

Perhaps most surprising are the specialized fire services within major corporations, as former Glendale Battalion Chief Tom Propst explains his current role leading Disney Studios' own fire department. Meanwhile, St. Joseph's RN Tabitha Kovac demonstrates how hands-only CPR has revolutionized emergency response.

Whether you're a longtime resident or just curious about how modern emergency services operate, this episode offers rare insights into the people and systems working tirelessly to maintain Burbank's reputation for safety and community care. Visit the Fire Department's website to learn more about their programs and how you can better prepare your family for emergencies.

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Mayor Nikki Perez brings a uniquely personal perspective to Burbank governance as both a lifelong resident and the city's first pregnant mayor. Her deep roots in the community—from attending Roosevelt Elementary to graduating from Burroughs High School—fuel her passionate approach to civic leadership, where she's equally comfortable signing autographs for elementary students and tackling complex policy issues at council meetings.

Burbank's transportation landscape is evolving rapidly, particularly regarding electric bikes and scooters. Perez addresses safety concerns head-on, particularly for younger riders, while emphasizing the need for comprehensive education alongside regulations. Her nuanced understanding of these challenges reflects a commitment to both innovation and public safety, urging parents to consult local bike shops rather than simply ordering online without guidance.

The Starlight Bowl represents both Burbank's storied past and promising future. Following significant storm damage, Perez details plans for a complete revitalization rather than mere repairs, with funding already secured in previous budgeting. Her vision extends beyond infrastructure to the venue's programming, suggesting future entertainment options that better reflect the city's status as a media capital while creating meaningful community gathering spaces.

As Los Angeles prepares for the 2028 Olympics, Burbank is strategically positioning itself to host Paralympic athletes and events—leveraging the city's exceptional adaptive sports facilities rather than competing for general Olympic activities. This innovative approach demonstrates Perez's talent for identifying Burbank's unique strengths and opportunities on the regional stage.

Throughout our conversation, Perez balances fiscal responsibility with quality-of-life initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community events like Holiday in the Park that bring residents together across neighborhood boundaries. Her administration has created a community grant program specifically to support local organizations developing these crucial gathering opportunities.

Whether you're a longtime Burbank resident or new to our city, Mayor Perez invites your participation in shaping Burbank's future. Connect with City Hall, attend council meetings, or simply enjoy the many community events that make our city special. Together, we're building a Burbank that honors its past while embracing exciting new opportunities.

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What does it take to keep a city like Burbank safe and prepared for emergencies? Join us as we highlight insights from Eric Baumgardner, the Emergency Management Coordinator for the Burbank Fire Department, who shares his extensive expertise in handling the intricacies of emergency management. Discover the essential role of collaboration in emergency management and how Burbank’s community-focused strategies cover all bases—from mitigation and preparedness to response and coordination. Eric’s unique position involves working with local, state, and neighboring city agencies, ensuring that Burbank remains resilient in the face of potential hazards.

We unravel the complexities of mutual aid systems, spotlighting how fire services across the Verdugo area come together to efficiently tackle large-scale incidents. Learn about the seamless deployment of resources, such as air utility vehicles, which bolster response capabilities without taxing any single department. The cooperation extends beyond fire services, with Area C playing a pivotal role in coordinating law enforcement and disaster management across Burbank and its surrounding regions. Eric provides a fascinating look at the assembly of strike teams and task forces, highlighting the robust frameworks that ensure a coordinated response to emergencies like wildfires.

As we face the challenges of 2025, from potential storms to earthquake readiness, Eric emphasizes the importance of proactive community engagement. Reflecting on past incidents like the La Tuna Fire, we discuss how infrastructure improvements and regular public awareness initiatives have enhanced the city's resilience. We underscore the necessity of individual preparedness with resources such as ReadyBurbank.org and Alert Burbank, encouraging listeners to actively participate in building a safer community. Eric’s passion for emergency management is evident throughout our conversation, offering listeners valuable insights into the often unseen yet vital preparations that keep Burbank ready for any disaster.

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What drives someone from a lifelong residency in Burbank to the mayor's office? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Nikki Perez, Burbank's newest mayor, whose deep-rooted connection to the city fuels her mission to improve the lives of its residents. From her upbringing in local schools to her career as a social worker, Nikki's personal story is a testament to her unwavering dedication to community service. Listen as she shares the challenges she faces in addressing bureaucratic hurdles and her ambitious plans to bring meaningful change to Burbank.

Our conversation takes a deeper look at pressing issues like immigration concerns and public safety challenges. We tackle the complex dynamics of protecting undocumented residents while maintaining trust in local law enforcement. Hear about the critical policies and community engagement needed to ensure safety and cohesion in a rapidly growing city. We also discuss the importance of retaining trained personnel in essential services like police and fire departments amidst staffing shortages, a crucial step towards sustaining Burbank's high-quality city services.

The episode wraps up with a focus on the heartbeat of Burbank's economy: its thriving film industry. We'll explore how local businesses can flourish with targeted support and incentives, maintaining Burbank's status as a global media hub. Additionally, discover how the city's emergency preparedness plans are evolving, with initiatives like the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) playing a pivotal role. This episode is a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities facing Burbank, offering valuable insights for residents and stakeholders alike.

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What if your personal accountant could offer more than just tax advice, becoming a vital ally in navigating life's financial twists and turns? In this episode, I sit down with Layla Kashani from CBIS Data Tax to uncover the hidden benefits of having a dedicated financial guide. Layla shares why a personal touch can make all the difference, especially when faced with major life events or preparing for retirement. With many accounting firms closing their books to new clients, finding a trusted partner who knows your financial history is more important than ever.

We also explore the unique financial landscape following the recent wildfires in LA County. The IRS and California have declared the area a disaster zone, unlocking significant tax relief measures for residents. From managing insurance claims and FEMA aid to navigating the complexities of crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, Layla and I discuss the practical steps you can take to manage the financial aftermath of such devastating events. Plus, discover how CBIS Data Tax is giving back by offering free tax filing services to those affected by the fires.

Finally, we turn our attention to the dual nature of human responses to disasters: the scams and the generosity. While looting and fraudulent FEMA claims can be disheartening, the outpouring of support from organizations like the Red Cross showcases the community's resilience. We emphasize the importance of vigilance in protecting yourself from scams, as well as tracking charitable contributions for potential tax benefits. This episode is a call to unite as a community, strengthening bonds and seizing opportunities for disaster recovery and future resilience.

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